Jeff
I don't know why the price has jumped up so much in our area.
Watched a 15 pound anvil in rough shape, at an auction sell last spring, for 135 bucks.
Two weeks ago, I got a fair condition 130# for less than 2 bucks a pound and thought it was a good deal.
I have paid in excess of 3 bucks a # for a good condition anvil before.
Guess it depends on who is at the auction and who is willing to pay the price.
Don